The Malta Tourism Authority (MTA) has confirmed that a permit has been issued to Paradise Exiles in Sliema for the placement of tables and chairs on the public bay.
Speaking with The Malta Independent, a spokesperson for the MTA confirmed that the permission for tables and chairs to be placed on the rocky beach, just opposite the establishment, has been granted until the end of June 2021.
MTA said that this permission was granted in view of the protocols in place for restaurants and bars.
The take-up of public land brings with it a fair share of controversy.
In fact, this comes following a number of queries from passers-by as well as Sliema residents who questioned whether such acts were even allowed, arguing that the establishment is taking up public space. To add on to it, many expressed anger given that Sliema is a locality which is already very much consumed by businesses occupying public land such as pavements for private use.
Meanwhile, this newsroom also contacted Executive Secretary for the Sliema Local Council Anthony Attard, who highlighted that such permits are not issued by the Council but permits and enforcement are handled by MTA.
“All I can say is that there is an understanding that establishments which have had to shut down need assistance to pick-up these days. However, such assistance is not to be to the detriment of others, and it is not to be an act which does not respect the law covering it,” Attard said.
On the other hand, a spokesperson for the Planning Authority (PA) also confirmed that such affairs are being handled and endorsed by MTA, saying however that the PA is collaborating with MTA on this temporary measure due to Covid-19 restrictions under the supervision of the health authorities.
Due to the required two metre gap between each table, the number of tables inside of catering establishments had to be reduced, automatically reducing the number of customers which the establishment is allowed to accept.
The measure which states that congregating in groups of four or more is not allowed unless all persons concerned are family members living in the same household also posed a challenge for businesses. This restriction is expected to change from 7 June as restaurants can allow six people per table (up from four).
Prime Minister Robert Abela had said that due to these safety regulations imposed on businesses to keep the public safe, the system which permitted for outside seating beyond original planning permits was eased during the pandemic. This is being done to help provide compensation to those businesses that are losing out due to not being able to have many chairs and tables inside.